Can You Tig Weld Off a Regular Stick Welder?

Using a regular stick welder (SMAW) to perform TIG welding (GTAW) is indeed possible with some modifications and additional equipment. This versatile approach allows welders to harness the capabilities of a stick welder for TIG applications, which can be particularly useful in situations where a dedicated TIG welder is not available. Let's delve into the process of adapting your stick welder for TIG welding.

Equipment Needed

To make this transformation, you'll need the following:

TIG Torch: A TIG torch compatible with your stick welder is essential. Ensure that it can handle the required amperage for TIG welding. Gas Supply: TIG welding requires a shielding gas, typically argon. Obtain a gas cylinder and a flowmeter to control the gas flow. TIG Welding Kit: Some kits include a gas lens and different size tungsten electrodes, which can be beneficial for your welder. Electrode Holder: If you plan to perform stick welding as well, a holder for the stick electrodes is necessary.

Method

1. Set Up the Welder

The first step is to check if your stick welder can produce a DC output, which is necessary for TIG welding. Ensure that the welder is capable of delivering the required amperage for the material you intend to weld.

2. Connect the TIG Torch

Attach the TIG torch to your stick welder, making sure the ground clamp is securely connected. This setup will enable you to control the arc using the foot pedal or torch switch.

3. Adjust Settings

Set the welder to the appropriate amperage for the material you are working with. Generally, TIG welding requires lower amperage compared to stick welding.

4. Shielding Gas

Open the gas cylinder and set the flow rate on the flowmeter. A flow rate of 15-25 cubic feet per hour (CFH) is typically sufficient for TIG welding.

5. Weld

Once everything is set up, use the foot pedal or the torch switch to control the amperage while welding. Practice is key to developing the necessary skills for TIG welding.

Considerations

Limitations

Stick welders are not designed for high-frequency start used in some TIG applications, which may make starting the arc more challenging.

Quality

The quality of the weld may not match that of a dedicated TIG welder, especially on thin materials. Optimal results can be achieved by investing in a dedicated TIG welder.

Practice

For beginners, developing the necessary skills for TIG welding is crucial. Regular practice will help you gain familiarity with the process and improve your technique.

In conclusion, using a regular stick welder for TIG welding can be a cost-effective solution for some applications. However, for the best results and optimal weld quality, a dedicated TIG welder is highly recommended. Whether you are an experienced welder or just starting out, adapting your stick welder for TIG welding opens up new possibilities in your welding arsenal.